The pursuit of anatomical mastery stands as a testament to Leonardo’s insatiable curiosity. Viewing the human body as a marvelously compact machine capable of an extensive array of movements, he embarked on a profound exploration, leaving behind a legacy of detailed anatomical studies that would prove just how far ahead of his time Leonardo’s work really was.
Leonardo’s notebooks showcased numerous drawings illustrating the mechanical principles governing human movement. His dedication to deciphering the beauty of human proportions and the intricate workings of muscles and tendons in motion led him to dissect and draw over thirty individuals, spanning various ages. Operating under the veil of secrecy due to the prohibition of human dissection, Leonardo worked diligently, often in secret, to deepen his understanding.
In his anatomical studies, Leonardo went beyond the surface, capturing the nuances of old age with its wrinkles and deformities, as well as the vitality of youth. He was the first to identify atherosclerosis; a hardening of the arteries.
His greatest achievement in heart studies, however, was his discovery of how the aortic valve works, a triumph only confirmed in modern times.
The precision of Leonardo’s anatomical drawings remains a remarkable achievement, resonating across three and a half centuries. His work not only served as a cornerstone for understanding the human form but also set the stylistic and formal standards for subsequent anatomical drawings, perhaps influencing the iconic textbook Gray’s Anatomy.
Leonardo once said: The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art.